His project is titled “Integrin-Linked Kinase Facilitates Communication Between Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts and Immune Cells in Papillary Thyroid Cancer.” The project will examine the role of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in thyroid cancer, because the critical role of CAFs in other cancers is well understood, but their role in thyroid cancer is largely unknown. Dr. Shirley’s research aims to assess their role in thyroid cancer in order to uncover new markers and targets for new treatments for patients with papillary thyroid cancer who fail traditional treatments and lack alternative therapies.